Byron Donalds continues to make education a centerpiece of his campaign for the Republican gubernatorial nomination.
The third-term Congressman from Naples advocates long-term Student Success Plans starting no later than sixth grade for students, with educational dollars that follow them no matter what kind of school they attend.
“Florida doesn’t just want to graduate students, we want to launch them into success,” said Donalds. “We know there is no one-size-fits-all student, and there shouldn’t be one pathway to a career. Whether your kid wants to build rockets, run a business, or become a nurse, Florida is going to meet them where they are and get them where they want to go.”
Plans would be “built in partnership with parents, not bureaucrats,” per a release from his campaign.
Under Donalds’ proposal, “college, trade, military, and entrepreneurship pathways as equally resourced and equally respected.”
Graduation credits could come from traditional coursework, as well as dual enrollment, industry certifications, and apprenticeships. Employer partnerships are also incorporated into the proposal.
Donalds has touched on K-12 throughout his campaign, and has floated proposals for individual learning plans and apprenticeships previously.
And it’s a family effort.
Erika Donalds, the candidate’s wife who is an education entrepreneur, former Collier County School Board member and current Chair of the Center for Education Opportunity, advocates for these policy moves as well.
